The basics of magic

Harlan Tarbell is known for his penchant for props with an oriental touch. In many photos, he can be seen posing in this style, wearing a turban.

In these two lessons, he unleashes a veritable firework display of oriental-looking tricks. He takes the reader on a journey through an exotic world, from small tricks performed in close-up to productions and illusions suitable for large stages.

The secret of the growing mango tree, with which Hindu magicians have amazed their audiences since time immemorial, is revealed, and a practical version of this trick for local performances is presented.

From apparently empty props such as the Chinese treasure chest, the lightning dove frame or a Chinese lantern, you can conjure up countless lanterns, silk scarves, even live doves and many other Far Eastern-looking objects.

Ching Ling Foo's Mystery of the Cut Ribbon inspired the famous strip of paper that is repeatedly cut and yet immediately restored: a feat that has been performed by many renowned artists around the globe for decades.

There are also tricks with fireworks, balloons, oranges and dice, rings and ribbons, a turban, and mysterious walking Chinese weights.